Premier Su Tseng-chang says that the government will take necessary measures to protect Taiwan’s dignity as a country. Su was responding to Hong Kong authorities’ treatment of the staff of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the city.
Local authorities had asked staff members to sign an affidavit recognizing the “one China” principle, and said that those who didn’t would not have their visas renewed. The staff refused the request, and returned to Taiwan last week.
Su said that Taiwan is happy to communicate with Hong Kong, but the relationship must be based on mutual respect. Su also said that China should respect Hong Kong’s autonomy.
Taiwan has also declined to renew the visas of two staff members at Hong Kong’s representative office in Taipei. Both have since returned to Hong Kong.